Kindiki Directs KeNHA to Build Cycling Lanes Along Nyeri-Nyahururu Highway After Deadly Crash
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has directed the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to construct dedicated cycling lanes along the Nyeri–Nyahururu Highway following a fatal road accident that claimed 16 lives, intensifying concerns over road safety in the region.
Speaking during an interdenominational requiem service held at ASK Kabiru-ini Grounds in Nyeri County on April 7, Kindiki issued immediate instructions for the agency to begin groundwork for the project. The ceremony brought together families, leaders, and residents mourning victims of what authorities described as one of the deadliest recent crashes along the busy corridor.
“We direct KeNHA to conduct surveys and assessments on this highway next week before construction begins to enhance safety and prevent further loss of life,” Kindiki stated, underscoring the urgency of intervention.
According to the Deputy President, the proposal to introduce cycling lanes was strongly backed by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who highlighted the vulnerability of schoolchildren and cyclists who frequently use the road. The highway serves as a key transport link but is also heavily used by non-motorised road users, exposing them to significant risks.
Data from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) identifies several sections of the Nyeri–Nyahururu route, including Wiyumiririe, Kianugu, and Mweiga, as high-risk zones. These areas are characterised by narrow carriageways, high vehicle speeds, and heavy traffic volumes, all of which contribute to frequent and often fatal accidents.
Motorists and residents have also pointed to specific blackspots such as the Dedan Kimathi University stretch, Honi River Bridge, Solio Ranch gate, Mahiga, and Kamariki. These sections are reportedly plagued by potholes, flooding risks, and poor visibility, further compounding safety challenges.
Kindiki assured the public that the government would mobilise resources to ensure the project is implemented without delay. He emphasised that funding constraints should not hinder life-saving infrastructure.
“The government will raise funds by all means possible to kick-start this project. We cannot fail to finance an initiative meant to protect lives,” he said.
Beyond infrastructure, the Deputy President also raised concern over what he termed widespread negligence among road users. He cited reckless driving, overspeeding, and the operation of unroadworthy vehicles as major contributors to accidents across the country.
“We are facing a high level of negligence, especially among motorists who overspeed, ignore traffic laws, and operate vehicles that are not roadworthy,” Kindiki warned.
He referenced the government’s plan to enforce traffic compliance through an automated instant fine management system, which would issue penalties directly to offenders via mobile platforms. However, he noted that the initiative has faced legal hurdles.
“If you are caught overspeeding, instant fines will be sent to your phone. If you don’t pay, your vehicle will be detained. Unfortunately, the court issued an injunction, and we are requesting the judiciary to help save lives by lifting these orders,” he added.
The directive comes amid growing alarm over road fatalities nationwide. The National Police Service (NPS) recently reported that more than 50 people lost their lives during the Easter period alone, highlighting the scale of the crisis.
Road safety advocates have long called for a multi-pronged approach, combining infrastructure improvements, stricter enforcement, and public awareness campaigns to address the rising toll.
As KeNHA prepares to conduct feasibility studies, residents and stakeholders remain hopeful that the proposed cycling lanes will significantly reduce accidents along the Nyeri–Nyahururu Highway. The project, if implemented effectively, could serve as a model for integrating non-motorised transport infrastructure into Kenya’s broader road network, potentially saving countless lives in the future.
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